When you’re starting with LINQ to SQL, one of the first architectural decisions is whether to use a single DataContext or multiple DataContexts. I explain both approaches: the implications for connection management, transaction handling, performance, and maintainability. The right choice depends on your application’s complexity, data access patterns, and scalability requirements.

MySQL doesn’t have a built-in ROWNUM function like Oracle, but you can simulate row numbering using user variables. I share the exact SQL technique for adding sequential row numbers to your MySQL query results, including handling ordering, partitioning, and the common pitfalls that produce unexpected numbering. A practical solution for a frequently encountered database requirement.